Blackjack is a simple to learn casino game loved by people the world over. Although playing basic strategy and knowing the rules are important, it’s also essential to learn the most common blackjack hand signals.
The good news is that they are easy to get the hang of. And once you know how to use them, they’ll ensure games go faster and smoother.
The Importance of Blackjack Hand Signals
Using blackjack hand signals correctly is important for the player and the casino. They help the game run smoothly and efficiently, so the dealer knows instantly your move for each hand. Not only that, but they keep the game fair. Cameras are positioned over all tables, so if there is a dispute, the cameras can be checked and your hand signal can be scrutinised.
This is why it’s important to get a hang of these moves, so you don’t make a mistake in a game and pull a card you didn’t want. Here is an overview of the important functions of blackjack hand signals:
- Security. Not all casino cameras pick up sound. If a mistake is made by the dealer who pulls a card for you when you signalled ‘no card’, this can be checked on the footage. If there is no hand signal, it would be hard to know whether it’s the dealer’s or the players’ mistake.
- Casino etiquette. Using the correct blackjack hand signals is seen as good player etiquette. Overall, this creates a better experience for players and the dealer.
- Clarity of your intentions. The right signals will convey your decision clearly to the dealer, avoiding confusion and keeping the game flowing.
Common Blackjack Hand Signals
When learning how to play blackjack, blackjack hand signals are an essential cog in that tuition. We’ve all been at a blackjack table where an obvious newbie is flapping about giving the dealer mixed signals! It’s not a nice experience for the dealer or players. So, here’s what you need to know to avoid being ‘that’ person:
Hit
Hitting in blackjack is what you do when you want to take another card. Whether you hit or not depends on what card the dealer is showing, what cards you have and what type of blackjack you are playing.
Hand Signal: Tap the table with your finger.
Stand
Standing in blackjack means that you are happy with your hand and do not want another card. It’s a good idea to stand when you have a hard 17 or higher, or if you think the next card pulled will make you go bust.
Hand Signal: To stand, sweep your hand over your card from left to right, signalling no more to the dealer.
Split
If you get dealt two of the same cards in your hand, such as two 9s, or two 10s, you can split them and play both hands separately. However, it’s important to refer to basic strategy and only do this at the right time for the best outcome.
Hand Signal: Place a 2nd bet equal to and next to your original bet. Point your index and middle fingers towards these bets in an open V-shape, signalling that you’d like to split.
Double Down
When you double down in blackjack, you are effectively doubling your bet to receive one more card only. While some casinos let you double on anything, the majority allow double downs on 9, 10 and 11.
Hand Signal: Place an equal bet next to your original bet. Extend your index finger to show the dealer that you want one more card only.
Surrender
While not all casinos offer this, some do offer a surrender option where you can forfeit your bet and get half your money back. This is worth doing if you have a poor hand like a 15 or 16 against the dealer’s ten or an Ace up card.
Hand Signal: Use your index finger to draw an imaginary line behind your cards, signalling you are done. However, this may confuse some dealers, so you can verbally say ‘’surrender’’ to ensure your intentions are clear.
Are Blackjack Hand Signals Used Online?
Traditional blackjack played in a land-based casino is managed slightly differently from blackjack games seen at online casinos. When playing blackjack online, hand signals are not used as the dealer cannot see you. To hit, stand, split, double down and surrender, you need to click the appropriate buttons.
There are various different types of blackjack you can play online, including live dealer blackjack. This gives you an extremely realistic casino experience, without leaving home. Listen to the dealer’s instructions to place your bets and play your hand when instructed. Just remember to follow responsible gaming guidelines and use safer gambling tools to manage your play.
Popular Blackjack Games to Try Out at PlayOJO
While you won’t need to worry about hand signals when playing blackjack online at PlayOJO, you can practice your skills and enjoy a range of fun variants. The majority of our blackjack games have an RTP of over 99% and we give money back on every bet. Yes, we love to take care of our OJO fam – start playing online today from £1.
Here are a few of our most popular black games:
Live Blackjack
Feel like you’re playing blackjack at a traditional casino, without leaving the sofa! Chat with other players in real time and test out your strategy. Check out our live blackjack variants, including Infinite Blackjack and Mega Fireblaze Blackjack Live.
European Blackjack Turbo
European Blackjack Turbo is another of OJO’s popular live blackjack games played with 8 decks. However, this variant will test if you’re snoozing at the table, as speed is the name of the game! Keep your wits about you as the dealer races through the hands.
